The Human Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) Foundation recently announced the findings of a survey to assess the impact of pet owners’ knowledge of the benefits of the human-animal bond on the level of care they provide their pets.

“Scientific research shows that pets are good for our health, improving heart health, relieving stress and positively impacting conditions from autism to PTSD. Now, for the first time, we have data to show that it’s a two-way street – when we know how good pets are for us, we are more likely to take better care of them!”

– Steven Feldman, Executive Director, HABRI

Among the survey’s results,

89% of pet owners said they were more likely to take better care of their pets

75% of pet owners said they were more likely to microchip a pet to ensure it can be found if lost or stolen

51% of pet owners said they were more likely to purchase pet health insurance

62% of pet owners said they were less likely to skip visits to the veterinarian

74% of pet owners said they were less likely to give up a pet for any reason

88% of pet owners said they were more likely to provide their pets with high-quality nutrition

92% of pet owners said they were more likely to maintain their pet’s health, including keeping up with vaccines and preventative medicine

A New Jersey-based cat sanctuary is offering homes for cats who have experienced the loss of their owners.
The program, known as the Guardian Angel Program, ensures that cats will always have a home as...